Distance Formula:
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The distance calculation using trigonometry allows you to determine the horizontal distance to an object when you know its height and the angle of elevation. This is particularly useful in surveying, navigation, and various engineering applications.
The calculator uses the trigonometric formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula uses the tangent function which relates the opposite side (height) to the adjacent side (distance) in a right triangle.
Details: Accurate distance calculation is crucial for various applications including construction planning, topographic surveying, navigation, and many engineering projects where direct measurement is impractical.
Tips: Enter the height in consistent units, and the angle in degrees (between 0 and 90). All values must be valid (height > 0, angle between 1-89 degrees).
Q1: Why can't the angle be 90 degrees?
A: At 90 degrees, the tangent function is undefined as it would represent a vertical line with infinite slope.
Q2: What units should I use for height?
A: You can use any consistent units (meters, feet, etc.) as long as the distance result will be in the same units.
Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise, but real-world accuracy depends on the precision of your height and angle measurements.
Q4: Can I use this for angles greater than 90 degrees?
A: No, this formula is specifically designed for angles of elevation between 0 and 90 degrees in a right triangle.
Q5: What if I need to calculate height instead of distance?
A: You would rearrange the formula to: Height = Distance × tan(Angle).